With the season opener five days away, here is a won-loss projection (based on what we know at this time):

Certain victories: Indiana State (home), Eastern Michigan (home).

Probable victories: Temple (road), Purdue (home).

Looks like a victory: Indiana (road).

Should be a victory: Illinois (home).

50-50: Iowa (home), Northwestern (road).

Likely losing to at least three of these four ranked teams: Alabama (home), Nebraska (home), Ohio State (road), Wisconsin (road).

Summary: A really good scenario is 9-3. If somehow Lions can bump off two of those four ranked teams, a 10-2 record would be outrageous and possibly result in a BCS bowl. Unfortunately, 6-6 also is in play.

Prediction: 8-4 (Projecting, at this point, victories over Iowa and Nebraska but a loss at Northwestern).

(The sad part about this is that 9-3 would be considered a really good regular season. Used to be that was a mediocre year.)

Current Comments

I wouldnt look past that Temple game so quickly.

Posted By: ASD | Aug 29, 2011 2:09:38 PM

Your prognostication seems wise. I hope Alabama provides us with a positive barometer. A tight game won or lost will provide the affirmation needed to win 9.
I am happy with the more challenging schedule. I've always enjoyed competitive games more than blowouts.

Posted By: FRANK KAWTOSKI | Aug 29, 2011 2:32:01 PM

Anyone who considered a 9 win season mediocre needs to re-examine his priorities. I've been an alum since 1964 and in spite of fuzzy nostalgia for a golden past, there have been no decades where Penn State averaged 9 wins per season.

Posted By: Gershonlevitt | Aug 29, 2011 6:42:52 PM

For me, a loyal Penn State fan for 42 years; a winning season is sufficient. It is extremely difficult to win a National championship.f everything lines up properly you have a chance and if not, a trip to a major bowl is your "Superbowl". I think that PSU chances are very good to score a major bowl this year and if not, I'll continue to be a loyal fan. GO PENN STATE!!!

Posted By: Chip | Aug 29, 2011 6:44:29 PM

10-2. This group will surprise like 2005!

Posted By: Rlm | Aug 30, 2011 7:34:38 AM

We are...

Posted By: Rlm | Aug 30, 2011 7:35:39 AM

Gershonlevitt, below are wins by decade. You can do the math.

in the 70's they won 97 games, 80's 89 games, 90's 97 games again, and believe it or not, they won 88 games in 00's. It used to be 9 win season were not considered successful.